Salman Azhari: Islamic Scholar and Orator

Salman Azhari, a distinguished Islamic scholar and orator, is renowned for his profound knowledge, eloquent speeches, and dedication to the propagation of Islamic teachings. Born into a family with deep-rooted Islamic scholarship, he hails from the lineage of respected ulema and has carried forward this legacy with remarkable dedication.

Mufti Salman completed his early Islamic education in India before advancing his studies at the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, where he earned his degree in Islamic Jurisprudence and Theology. Al-Azhar, a beacon of Islamic learning for over a millennium, honed his understanding of traditional Islamic sciences, equipping him to address contemporary issues with a balanced and informed perspective.

A multilingual scholar fluent in Arabic, Urdu, and English, Mufti Salman Azhari has reached diverse audiences worldwide. His sermons and lectures often focus on fostering unity, interfaith harmony, and adherence to the core values of Islam, such as compassion, justice, and service to humanity. He is particularly known for his ability to explain complex theological concepts in a relatable and accessible manner, making him a beloved figure among both scholars and laypersons.

Mufti Salman has traveled extensively, delivering lectures and attending conferences across countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East. His contributions extend beyond the pulpit; he actively engages in social welfare initiatives, emphasizing education and empowerment as tools for uplifting communities.

A staunch advocate for peace and coexistence, Mufti Salman Azhari continues to inspire countless individuals with his scholarship, humility, and unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Islam as a religion of peace and universal brotherhood.

Syed Sarwar Chishty: Religious Leader/ Community leader/Spiritual Leader

Maulana Syed Sarwar Chishty serves as the khadim (caretaker) of Ajmer Sharif Dargah, one of India’s most sacred and revered Sufi Muslim shrines. He is a direct descendant and successor caretaker of the holy shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Moinuddin Chishti.

The Dargah, located in the heart of Rajasthan, is the final resting place of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as Gharib Nawaz. This sacred site welcomes millions of devotees from diverse faiths, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians, who visit to offer prayers, seek blessings, and make wishes. Upon the fulfillment of their wishes, devotees present offerings such as langar (community meals), niaz (charitable donations), flowers, and chadars (sacred cloth).

As a direct descendant and member of the Syed Khadim Chishty family, Syed Sarwar Chishty is honored to have a bloodline connection with Hazrat Gharib Nawaz (RA). By his divine blessings, the family holds the sacred responsibility of performing noble works associated with the Darbar Sharif and receiving the offerings (nazrana) made to the shrine.

Devotees from around the world are warmly invited to visit Darbar Sharif in person to experience its spiritual ambiance. For assistance with taweezats (amulets), duas (prayers), or fulfillment of vows (mannat), devotees may contact Syed Sarwar Chishty directly. Additionally, for those facing challenges such as black magic or other difficulties, the khadims at the Dargah are available to provide spiritual guidance and assistance.

To support pilgrims, the khadims offer free accommodations and ensure that visitors have a comfortable and fulfilling experience. Together, the khuddam (servants of the Dargah) dedicate themselves to human welfare and spiritual betterment under the blessings of Hazrat Gharib Nawaz.

Tauqeer Raza Khan: Religious Leader

Tauqeer Raza Khan is an Indian Islamic scholar and politician, known as the founder of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, a political party based in Uttar Pradesh, and a prominent figure among Barelvi Sunni Muslims. He is a great-grandson of Ahmad Raza Khan, the founder of the Barelvi movement. Khan has served as the head of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (Jadeed), which he established to address perceived discrimination by the Deobandi faction of the board. His political career began in 2001, and he has garnered support from various parties throughout his political journey, including the Indian National Congress and the Samajwadi Party, often calling for communal solidarity among Muslims.

Khan's career has not been without controversy. In 2016, he sought unity with Deobandi scholars but faced backlash from Barelvi clerics, resulting in an apology after a religious ruling deemed his actions sinful. He has also been accused of inciting hatred against Hindus. His political activism often aligns with religious undertones, as seen in his calls for Muslims to vote based on their faith. He has made headlines for several incidents, including issuing a reward for the head of Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin and being arrested during riots in Bareilly in 2010.

On a more contemporary note, in 2024, he condemned government actions during the Haldwani violence, urging self-defense for his community and criticizing the ruling authorities. Khan's rhetoric has repeatedly sparked polarization along religious lines, reflecting the complexity of religious and political interactions in India today. His controversial statements and actions highlight the intertwining of communal identity and politics in his advocacy for the Muslim community in India.